On November 10, 2024, multiple callers alerted law enforcement to a reckless driver coming into Bonham on Hwy 56 from the east, swerving into oncoming traffic on a bridge and nearly hitting two vehicles head-on. Bonham police were quickly able to locate the vehicle, begin their investigation and prevent a serious accident from occurring. Investigation at the scene showed that Howard was intoxicated with slurred speech and was confused about where he was and where he was going. Open containers of beer were located in the vehicle and Howard admitted to drinking. Blood drawn later showed his blood alcohol was 0.213--more than double the legal limit.

Howard was found to have had four previous DWI convictions in Collin County, Somervell County, and Johnson County dating back to 2002.

“Thankfully the Bonham police were able to prevent innocent lives from being lost that evening,” said First Assistant District Attorney Nathan Young. “Now this defendant will be off the streets where he cannot hurt anyone. He had multiple chances in other counties to stop drinking and driving, to get help for his drinking and he chose not to. Today we made the choice for him.”